Don't let the GPS fool you!

3 MINUTE READ 

Why you should not entirely always rely on GPS routes?

Clarke's Relief Globe (1849) etching art by J.M. Attwood, image by Rawpixel


Advaith and Ajmal, who were relying solely on their GPS system to guide them home after a get-together, drowned in Kerala, India, when their car got stuck in a section of road that had collected rainwater and turned into a nearby river. They were unaware that their car had entered the river until it was much too late.

While GPS (Global Positioning System) routes are incredibly useful for navigation, there are several reasons why you should not entirely rely on them:


Signal Loss or Interference: GPS signals can be disrupted or blocked by tall buildings, trees, tunnels, or even atmospheric conditions. When the signal is lost, the GPS may not provide accurate directions or may not work at all. In such situations, having alternate navigation methods is crucial.


Outdated or Incorrect Maps: GPS devices and apps rely on maps and navigation databases that may not always be up to date. Roads can change, new routes can be constructed, and important details like road closures or traffic conditions may not be accurately reflected in the GPS data.


Human Judgment: GPS navigation systems may not always take into account real-time conditions, such as traffic congestion, weather, road closures, or accidents. Human judgment and local knowledge can be important for making on-the-fly decisions to optimize your route.


Battery or Technical Issues: GPS devices and smartphone apps rely on batteries and electronic components, which can fail or run out of power. Over-reliance on GPS can leave you stranded if your device dies, and you don't have a backup plan.


Misinterpretation of Directions: GPS navigation can sometimes provide confusing or unclear directions. Depending solely on GPS without verifying the route on a map or using common sense can lead to wrong turns or confusion.


Lack of Local Knowledge: GPS doesn't provide information about local landmarks, attractions, or cultural nuances. Relying solely on GPS may cause you to miss interesting places or fail to appreciate local culture.


Security Concerns: There have been instances of people blindly following GPS directions and ending up in dangerous or prohibited areas. It's essential to use common sense and local knowledge to ensure your safety.


Overreliance on Technology: Depending solely on GPS can lead to a lack of basic navigation skills. It's important to maintain a sense of direction and know how to read a map in case your GPS fails or is unavailable.


Things to keep in mind: 

GPS recommends other routes with less traffic during similar conditions (rain, flooding, etc.), but those other routes might not be as safe. NEVER choose a longer or unknown route in order to avoid traffic jams.

Numerous small information, most of which we never look at, are abundant in GPS programmes. A two-wheeler may follow a different recommended path than a four-wheeler. Larger cars can't always travel on routes intended for smaller vehicles, so choosing the right vehicle type is vital when choosing a route.

And the blatantly evident. If you are not positive that there is a concrete road underneath the water, do not enter it with or without a vehicle. On a new road, you cannot determine that. So, you have to either avoid going there or ask someone close to make sure you're safe.

To address these issues, it's advisable to use GPS navigation as a helpful tool but not as your sole means of navigation. Always have a backup plan, carry physical maps, stay informed about local conditions, and use your common sense when driving or navigating.






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